News 88.9 KNPR

Donate your vehicle

Clear out the garage and get a clean start. Support Nevada Public Radio by donating your vehicle.

On KNPR right now

" "

Listen Live

  Real Audio | Windows Media

Support KNPR Classical 89.7 KCNV

SCHEDULEFEATURESFAQMEMBERSCONTACTCLASSICAL 89.7KSGU

 

Desert Bloom

  with Angela O'Callaghan
  and Norm Schilling

Tuesdays 5:33 a.m. & 7:33 a.m.
Saturdays 8:35 a.m.

Desert Bloom

Every week one our desert gardeners provides expert advice on making your desert garden bloom. They'll take you to some of their favorite landscapes in Las Vegas and introduce you to horticultural experts working in Southern Nevada.

Angela O'Callaghan is Associate Professor, Nevada Cooperative Extension - Specialist in Social Horticulture. She runs the Southern Nevada Master Gardeners, the Corrections Horticulture Program, "Food for Thoughts" (a school gardening program) and the Healing/Community gardens program. Her Masters and Doctorate in Horticulture are from Cornell University.

For information to help face the issues of gardening in the Mojave Desert, check out her publication "Becoming a Desert Gardener" and other publications at the UNCE website.

Norm Schilling is owner of Schilling Horticulture Group in Las Vegas. His prior experience includes horticulture supervisor at UNLV and lead groundskeeper at the Gardens at the Las Vegas Springs Preserve (formerly the Desert Demonstration Garden). He's an ISA certified arborist and teaches a variety of horticulture and tree care topics. You're invited to submit questions to Desert Bloom.

Join Norm Schilling Dr. Angela O'Callaghan and other experts in the field for A Plant Affair lecture series at the UNLV Arboretum March 15th, 16th, 29th and 30th.

Check out Norm Schilling's list of "Wonderful Plants on the Cheap and Easy", "Norm's Favorite Desert Trees" and "Fall and Winter Color Plants".

Podcasts

Send your comments to letters@knpr.org.


Aug 5, 2008

   

Summer Plants

    As we try to endure few more weeks of summer, Norm Schilling is checking the garden for plants that do well in the heat, and some that do not.

Jul 15, 2008

   

Potted Plants

    If you want to do some planting in containers, Norm Schilling has solutions for the problems they might present.

Jul 8, 2008

   

Summer Pests

    Angela O'Callaghan has some tips about fixing the small things in your garden so the big ones take care of themselves.

Jul 1, 2008

   

July Heat

    The forecast calls for a straight-on blast of summer. Your garden feels it too, and now that we're in the month of July, Norm Schilling says 'take it easy.'

Jun 24, 2008

   

Cycads

    Some desert plants do pretty well here, even if they're not native to this region of the world.

Jun 10, 2008

   

Fruit Trees part 2

    Norm Schilling continues his observations on fruit trees. For Norm, the fruit is the additional benefit of having shade trees.

Jun 3, 2008

   

Pesticides

    Applying chemicals to plants and insects is a lot more complicated than just aiming and spraying. Angela O'Callaghan explains.

May 27, 2008

   

Fruit Trees

    Norm Schilling has some tips on getting your fruit trees as productive as the ones in his yard.

May 13, 2008

   

Untangling the Vines

    Norm Schilling says this is a good time of year to take a closer look at your vines.

May 6, 2008

   

Compost

    Composting reduces your garbage load, and it can make your garden very happy, too. Angela O'Callaghan explains.

May 1, 2008

   

Cactus Pruning

    Pruning your cactus isn't the simplest of tasks, but if you know what you're doing it's no problem. Norm Schilling knows.

Apr 8, 2008

   

Palm Pruning

    Angela O'Callaghan and M. L. Robinson talk about problems with palms.

Apr 1, 2008

   

Weeds

    If you garden, you know that this is the time of year when weeds can drive you crazy. Norm Schilling has some tips.

Mar 25, 2008

   

Plant Sale

    If you're searching for some plants to complement your landscape, Angela O'Callaghan has some ideas about where you can find them.

Mar 11, 2008

   

Spring Renewal

    Norm Schilling says Spring is the time for renewal and rebirth in the garden.

Feb 12, 2008

   

Plan to Prune

    Some pruning takes planning. Norm Schilling's had one in the works for a year.

Feb 5, 2008

   

Spring Prep

    Despite the cold, windy weather Angela O'Callaghan says it's time to start thinking about Spring.

Jan 15, 2008

   

Trim the Roses

    In the garden it's a good time of year to have your gloves nearby. Here's Norm Schilling.

Jan 8, 2008

   

Fruit Trees

    If you've tried to grow fruit trees in the Nevada desert, you can appreciate some of the challenges faced by Angela O'Callaghan.

Jan 1, 2008

   

Two Days to Plant

    Though you may think you can dig a hole and drop a plant in it, Norm Schilling says it should be a two-day job.

Dec 18, 2007

   

Winter Color

    Even during winter in the desert, Norm Schilling reminds us we can have colorful plants in our yards.

Dec 4, 2007

   

Octopus Agave

    Soon after his Octopus Agave bloomed early this year, it died. But Norm Schilling has an update on the thousands of new plants that were the result.

Nov 27, 2007

   

Christmas Trees

    Angela O'Callaghan has some advice on Christmas trees.

Nov 20, 2007

   

Pruning

    Norm Schilling has some tips on getting a jump on Winter pruning.

Nov 13, 2007

   

Bulbs

    Angela O'Callaghan has the secrets to successful bulbs.

Nov 6, 2007

   

Fall Planting Tips

    Norm Schilling takes a look at his yard (and beyond) to suggest plants for you to try.

Oct 30, 2007

   

Cactus to Eat

    Without getting stuck, Angela O'Callaghan explores which cactus can be eaten.

Oct 23, 2007

   

Chocolate Flowers and more...

    Norm Schilling is enjoying his Fall garden while planting new specimens.

Oct 9, 2007

   

Cactus or Not?

    Angela O'Callaghan notes that not all spiny, desert plants are cactus.

Oct 2, 2007

   

Fall Planting

    Norm Schilling says the weather is great and that makes this the perfect time to work in the yard.

Sep 25, 2007

   

Plant Shopping

    Angela O'Callaghan offers some destinations for plant shopping this month.

Sep 18, 2007

   

Fall Planning #2

    Norm Schilling continues his thoughts on Fall planning.

Sep 11, 2007

   

Zone Challenge

    The cynical might say we're in the 'zone of challenge' for gardeners. Angela O'Callaghan has a more productive view.

Aug 28, 2007

   

Fall Planning

    Despite the lingering summer heat, Norm Schilling says now is the time to plan for fall in the garden.

Aug 21, 2007

   

Corrections Horticulture

    Angela O'Callaghan talks about a program of the Cooperative Extension to teach prison inmates about horticulture.

Aug 14, 2007

   

Protection from Heat with Mulch

    Angela O'Callaghan reminds us that the effects of severe summer heat can be reduced by using mulch in our gardens.

Aug 7, 2007

   

In-line Drips

    Norm Schilling offers an alternate method of watering...in-line drip irrigation.

Jul 31, 2007

   

Sago Palm

    Angela O'Callaghan explores the background of one our more popular desert plants, the Sago Palm.

Jul 17, 2007

   

Summer

    It's summer. Norm Schilling takes us to the yard to show us how it's looking.

Jul 10, 2007

   

Natural

    Angela O'Callaghan implores a more natural form for shrubs.

Jul 3, 2007

   

Summer Plants

    Norm Schilling is keeping an eye on some plants in his yard that seem to love the heat and help keep him cool.

Jun 26, 2007

   

Herbicides and Heat

    Angela O'Callaghan offers words of wisdom about using weed killer during the summer months.

Jun 19, 2007

   

Summer Color

    Norm Schilling has some ideas for summer color in the garden.

Jun 12, 2007

   

Relax, It's Summer

    Angela O'Callaghan says that with the summer heat there's less to do in the garden.

Jun 5, 2007

   

Last Chance

    Is there still a chance that some garden plants could have survived the January freeze? Norm Schilling has been holding out hope for a few...

May 29, 2007

   

House, Not Garden Plants

    Angela O'Callaghan warns us that you may think some house plants will grow outside...but not in the desert heat.

May 22, 2007

   

Fruits and Pests

    Fruits are ripening and out come the pests. We join Norm Schilling in the yard.

May 15, 2007

   

Tomatoes

    As the temperatures soar, Angela O'Callaghan has some tomato observations.

May 8, 2007

   

Tree City USA

    Norm Schilling toasts tree-caring communities.

Apr 17, 2007

   

Rosemary

    Angela O'Callaghan revisits a local favorite. Rosemary's...the shrub.

Apr 10, 2007

   

$$ for Grass

    Norm Schilling has some tips on making the most of the water authority's rebate program.

Apr 3, 2007

   

Rediscovering Yucca

    Angela O'Callaghan has a roundup of some very desert-friendly plants...yucca.

Mar 27, 2007

   

Fruits of His Labor

    Norm Schilling has advice on Spring chores that are easy and effective. And he has an update on his blooming Agave.

Mar 20, 2007

   

Garden Architecture

    If you're thinking about the design of your desert garden, here are some tips from a landscape architect.

Mar 13, 2007

   

Spring Cleaning

    The plants are talking to Norm Schilling so he's ready to start cleaning up the damage from our cold winter.

Mar 6, 2007

   

Cassia

    Angela O'Callaghan profiles one of her favorite early blooms, a fine fit for our desert spring.

Feb 27, 2007

   

Lady Bugs

    A few dollars and a few gardening observations from Norm Schilling.

Feb 20, 2007

   

Talking to Plants

    Angela O'Callaghan reviews some of the facts and fiction of communicating with plants.

Feb 13, 2007

   

Spring Pruning

    Norm Schilling gets us up to speed on what to prune and what not to in February.

Feb 6, 2007

   

Seedlings

    After the damage from the winter cold it's time to start thinking about Spring planting. Angela O'Callaghan has tips on starting from seed.

Jan 30, 2007

   

Frosty Recovery

    Following the recent cold snap, Norm Schilling finds signs of life among frost damaged plants.

Jan 23, 2007

   

Plant Damage

    Angela O'Callaghan has the connection betwen changing weather and disease in plants.

Jan 16, 2007

   

Freeze Damage

    Join Norm Schilling in his yard as he surveys damage from our sub-freezing temperatures.

Jan 9, 2007

   

Planning for Spring

    Though it's only mid-January, Angela O'Callaghan says it is time to start planning for Spring gardening.

Jan 2, 2007

   

Cactus Gardening

    Moving slowly through his cactus garden, Norm Schilling has tips on the care and pruning of cactus.

Dec 19, 2006

   

Holiday Plants

    Angela O'Callaghan offers these notes on trees and poinsettas for the holidays.

Dec 12, 2006

   

Tree Pruning

    Norm Schilling prunes a small tree and that gives him a chance to demonstrate the basics.

Dec 5, 2006

   

Indoor Plants

    Recent weather may make outdoor gardening less than enjoyable, but Angela O'Callaghan has some tips this week on attending to your indoor greenery.

Nov 28, 2006

   

Invest in Trees

    Norm Schilling makes the case for a smaller, younger tree, not for the season but for a permanent investment.

Nov 21, 2006

   

Texas Ranger

    The Texas Ranger is a popular desert plant. Angela O'Callaghan offers these thoughts on one of her favorite shrubs.

Nov 14, 2006

   

Tree Planting

    Fall is the time to plant trees. Norm Schilling has some tips.

Nov 7, 2006

   

Bird of Paradise

    Angela O'Callaghan explains that there's more than one kind of striking plant with the common name 'Bird of Paradise.' Each produces exquisite flowers; however, they are members of two very different plant families.

Oct 31, 2006

   

Cactus Planting 2

    Norm Schilling uses the cooler fall weather to continue some creative cactus planting.

Oct 24, 2006

   

Fall Planting

    Angela O'Callaghan has some tips to make the most of fall. She talks with M. L. Robinson on what to do for the fall planting season.

Oct 10, 2006

   

Prepare for Winter

    Angela O'Callaghan looks ahead to winterizing the yard.

Oct 3, 2006

   

Cactus Planting

    A container full of succulents and cacti presents a pleasant challenge for Norm Schilling.

Sep 26, 2006

   

Fixing the Soil

    Angela O'Callaghan has some tips on fixing some of the many soil problems we have.

Sep 12, 2006

   

Fall Planting

    Norm Schilling kicks off the fall planting season by making big changes in his landscape.

Sep 5, 2006

   

Blossom End Rot

    Angela O Callaghan works with inmates on a problem not confined to prison gardening, blossom end rot.

Aug 29, 2006

   

No Balls and Boxes

    Norm Schilling says we should put the plants in the ground and let them grow. Don't work so hard to shape the environment.

Aug 22, 2006

   

Garden Surprises

    Angela O'Callaghan shares some unlikely gardening success stories.

Aug 15, 2006

   

The Evolving Landscape

    Norm Schilling plans ahead for a failing tree.

Aug 8, 2006

   

Palms

    Norm Schilling offers observations about Palm trees...an integral element of making our desert landscapes appealing.

Aug 1, 2006

   

Lantana

    If you're looking for plants that flower in the desert during the hottest summer, Angela O'Callaghan finds Lantana and loves it.

Jul 25, 2006

   

End of Summer?

    It's hot, but not too hot to see what's colorful in Norm Schilling's yard. Norm explains why our plants are thinking that summer is nearing it's end.

Jul 11, 2006

   

Care and Feeding of Tomatoes

    Angela O'Callaghan has some tips on raising delicious tomatoes in the scorching desert.

Jul 4, 2006

   

Potted Plants

    Norm Schilling demonstrates some thrifty tips for making the most of potted plants.

Jun 27, 2006

   

Circles and Squares

    Angela O'Callaghan sees a lot of pruning mistakes when she looks at formal landscapes.

Jun 20, 2006

   

Pot Luck

    Potted plants can be a favorite, but if that pot is sitting in the sun you may be baking your plants.

Jun 13, 2006

   

Jimson Weed

    Related to edible vegetables, but classified as a weed. Angela O'Callaghan spies a decorative yet deadly plant in our midst.

Jun 6, 2006

   

Heat No Problem

    Norm Schilling details a landscape well-suited to handling our summer heat.

May 30, 2006

   

Oleanders

    The Oleanders are blooming but Angela O'Callaghan advises caution.

May 23, 2006

   

Wildflowers

    Norm Schilling takes stock of his 'volunteer' wildflowers this spring.

May 16, 2006

   

Desert Willow

    Angela O'Callaghan takes note of a Spring favorite, the Desert Willow.

May 9, 2006

   

Cactus Blooms

    Norm Schilling encourages us to go find some time to enjoy the cactus in our landscapes.

May 2, 2006

   

Planning and Planting

    A move inspires more landscape planning for Angela O'Callaghan.

Apr 25, 2006

   

Natural Pest Control

    Norm Schilling is excited about the results of his natural pest control experiment.

Apr 18, 2006

   

Blowing in the Wind

    Norm Schilling reminds us that a watering schedule is something to fine tune at this time of year.

Apr 11, 2006

   

Allergies

    Spring has sprung and so have allergies. Angela O'Callaghan suffers like many.

Mar 28, 2006

   

Planting 101

    Ready for spring, Norm Schilling kicks off the season with Planting 101.

Mar 21, 2006

   

Spring in the Desert

    Angela O'Callaghan has the details on an annual tradition - the CCSN Spring in the Desert sale and educational event.

Mar 14, 2006

   

Desert Disaster

    Norm Schilling says too many people spend too much time and effort ruining their desert landscape.

Mar 7, 2006

   

Fruit Trees

    Angela O'Callaghan gets the low down on what fruit trees do best in Southern Nevada.

Feb 28, 2006

   

Sprinkler Check

    It's time to check your sprinkler system. Norm Schilling explains how.

Feb 21, 2006

   

Before Spring Planting

    Before you get too enthused about Spring planting, Angela O'Callaghan has a checklist of the things needed in the yard.

Feb 14, 2006

   

Spring in the Desert

    Norm Schilling reviews the signs of spring.

Jan 31, 2006

   

Tree Pruning

    Norm Schiiling grabs his bow saw and shears to prune a Crepe Myrtle.

Jan 24, 2006

   

Cool Season Crops

    Though it's still winter, Angela O'Callaghan is planting her garden.

Jan 17, 2006

   

Winter Pruning

    A mild winter has brought roses into bloom, but Norm Schilling advises a heavy prune, that will take off these early flowers.

Jan 10, 2006

   

Cooperative Plants

    Angela O'Callaghan explains why some plants play nicer than others.

Jan 3, 2006

   

Out of Control

    Sometimes a plant can grow too well, as Norm Schilling explains in the case of his Morning Glory.

Dec 27, 2005

   

Asparagus

    Angela O'Callaghan reminds us that it's both a delicious vegetable and a decorative addition to the garden...asparagus.

Dec 20, 2005

   

Glorious Fall

    Norm Schilling finds that fall color is lasting well into winter.

Dec 13, 2005

   

House Plants

    Angela O'Callaghan reminds us that your houseplants will appreciate some care before you leave for the holidays.

Dec 6, 2005

   

Early Winter

    Norm Schilling revisits a landscape to look at seasonal changes.

Nov 29, 2005

   

Master Gardener

    Angela O'Callaghan has a new ally in finding solutions to gardening problems.

Nov 22, 2005

   

Good News

    Though Norm Schilling often talks about how to solve problems in the garden, this time he unearths plenty of good.

Nov 15, 2005

   

Creosote

    It's the signature plant of the Mohave Desert...and Angela O'Callaghan is always happy to see creosote bushes.

Nov 8, 2005

   

Grape Vine Predators

    Norm Schilling finds extensive damage to his grape vines and makes plans to safely protect them next year.

Nov 1, 2005

   

Bulbs

    Angela O'Callaghan reminds us that this is the perfect time of year to plant bulbs that will sprout beautiful flowers in the spring.

Oct 18, 2005

   

Fall Pruning

    With cooler temperatures here it's time for some pruning chores in the yard, Norm Schilling started his pruning a year ago.

Oct 11, 2005

   

Water-starved Trees

    You can take out the turf and create a desert landscape, but your old trees may suffer. Angela O'Callaghan advises special care and watering.

Oct 4, 2005

   

Summer Casualties

    Just because you're a professional, it doesn't mean the summer heat won't claim a few of your plants. Norm Schilling uses a windy sunday morning to examine the plants that didn't make it.

Sep 27, 2005

   

Desert Grasses

    Angela O'Callaghan shares some thoughts on grasses and the onset of the winter months.

Sep 20, 2005

   

Huntridge Landscape

    Norm Schilling visits a community service project that was in need of a new urban landscape.

Sep 13, 2005

   

Plant Problems

    There's a host of reasons for plants to appear sick, but looking closely at them will give you a head start on solving the problems.

Aug 30, 2005

   

Mature Landscapes

    Norm Schilling says that a simple driving tour around town will give you plenty of examples of what your yard might look like in 25 years.

Aug 23, 2005

   

Summer Blooms

    Angela O'Callaghan explains why plants know when it's time to bloom.

Aug 16, 2005

   

Sago Palm

    They're expensive and you'll need to have some 'faith' if you try to transplant one. Norm Schilling takes a look at a favorite type of palm tree.

Aug 2, 2005

   

Mulch

    As an east-coast transplant Angela O'Callaghan has been enjoying our recent heat wave - and thinking how plants could enjoy it too.

Jul 26, 2005

   

Summer Heat and Storms

    Norm Schilling finds out which garden plants are doing best with our scorching heat and recent storms.

Jul 19, 2005

   

Water, Fire and Weeds

    Angela O'Callaghan checks in with a natural resources specialist on three threats to our landscapes this summer.

Jul 12, 2005

   

Flagstones

    Norm Schilling takes on a backyard project to add flagstones while protecting an olive tree.

Jul 7, 2005

   

Sunburn

    Plants have eveolved unique ways to protect themselves from getting too much sun.

Jun 28, 2005

   

Desert Landscape Grows

    Less than a year ago Norm Schilling took the Southern Nevada Water Authority up on its offer to pay for turf conversion, and even Norm is surprised at how fast his new landscape has taken shape.

Jun 21, 2005

   

What's in a Name?

    Angela O'Callaghan explains that 'common' names of plants can lead to confusion.

Jun 14, 2005

   

The Perfect Yard

    Norm Schilling takes care of some early summer pruning and reflects on perfection in the yard.

Jun 7, 2005

   

Oleander

    The Oleanders are in bloom and Dr. Angela O'Callaghan reminds us of their less appealing properties.

May 31, 2005

   

'Shade' for Trees

    Norm Schilling uses burlap to give vulnerable plants their own version of sunscreen.

May 24, 2005

   

Centennial Tree Book

    Angela O'Callaghan learns about a Centennial book prepared by a coalition of agencies dedicated to tree resources.

May 17, 2005

   

Rejuvenation

    Norm Schilling uses radical pruning to resurrect a fig tree that seemed to be dead.

May 10, 2005

   

Desert Trees

    Angela O'Callaghan reviews the list of native trees that have thrived in the southern Nevada desert.

May 3, 2005

   

New Plants

    Norm Schilling checks on the progress of the new plants obtained at a recent plant sale.

Apr 19, 2005

   

Thistles

    Angela O'Callaghan discovers a wide variety of thistles...some good and some bad.

Apr 12, 2005

   

Dead or Alive

    Now that plants areblooming, Norm Schilling says it's time for pruning and figuring out what plants survived the winter.

Apr 5, 2005

   

Wind

    Angela O'Callaghan looks at the impact of wind on plants and people.

Mar 29, 2005

   

Spring Blooms

    Spring is paying off with flowers and foliage. Norm Schilling sprints through his blooming desert garden.

Mar 22, 2005

   

Water and Color

    With a CCSN Plant Sale coming up this weekend we hear why some plants make it to that nursery and some don't. It's not just low water that makes for a good choice of plant.

Mar 8, 2005

   

Laying Turf

    Mostly we talk about removing grass, but for those limited places where it makes sense to have turf Norm Schilling suggests you try laying your own.

Mar 1, 2005

   

Urban Forests

    Meet one of the people involved in the care of our urban forests.

Feb 22, 2005

   

Don't Plant Yet

    Norm Schilling says 'think' before you respond to your spring gardening urges.

Feb 8, 2005

   

Good Plants Gone Bad

    If weeds are just plants in the wrong place, what do you call a plant that's adapted to a home it wasn't intended for? Angela O'Callaghan wants to know!

Feb 1, 2005

   

Transplants and Iron Deficiency

    Norm Schilling takes advantage of a sunny late winter day for some needed chores in the yard.

Jan 25, 2005

   

Pesticides

    Angela O'Callaghan looks at the careful use of pesticides.

Jan 18, 2005

   

Particular Plants

    Norm Schilling finds a plant for all parts of your yard.

Jan 11, 2005

   

New Year Gardens

    A new year gives Angela O'Callaghan a chance to talk about new offerings for aspiring gardeners.

Jan 4, 2005

   

Staking Trees

    Norm Schilling has some advice on staking trees.

Dec 28, 2004

   

Dodder

    Look closely when traveling through the desert and you'll find a parasite named Dodder.

Dec 21, 2004

   

Conversion Complete

    Norm Schilling has been working on converting his yard from turf. After the rain slowed progress, he's heading to the finish.

Dec 14, 2004

   

Gift Ideas

    Angela O'Callaghan offers some thoughts on horticultural gift giving for the season.

Nov 30, 2004

   

Holiday Greenery

    Angela O'Callaghan offers some thoughts on the meaning of seasonal greenery in the desert.

Nov 23, 2004

   

Golden Fall

    Norm Schilling drives through the rain to explore and enjoy the fall colors.

Nov 16, 2004

   

Kitchen Gardening

    Now that the days are shorter and the temperatures cooler, Angela O'Callaghan has thoughts on indoor gardening.

Nov 9, 2004

   

Rainy Day Gardening

    Norm Schilling says a rainy day doesn't mean you can't enjoy the garden.

Nov 2, 2004

   

Hall of Fame II

    Sylvan Wittwer of Logandale was recently inducted into the National Horticulture Hall of Fame for his decades of pioneering research into making crops more productive. Angela O'Callaghan pays a visit to his Logandale vegetable garden.

Oct 12, 2004

   

Day with the Experts

    Once again, the Gardens at the Springs Preserve will be full of experts offering advice this weekend. Norm Schilling got a preview.

Oct 5, 2004

   

Hall of Fame

    Sylvan Wittwer of Logandale was recently inducted into the National Horticulture Hall of Fame for his decades of pioneering research into making crops more productive. Angela O'Callaghan pays a visit to his Logandale vegetable garden.

Sep 28, 2004

   

Agave Weevil

    Norm Schilling talks about beautiful agaves, and a nasty pest.

Sep 21, 2004

   

Autumn Planting

    With Fall just around the corner, Angela O'Callahan has some advice on how to get your autumn garden to grow.

Sep 14, 2004

   

Brewing Plants

    Angela O'Callaghan has been thinking about the relationship between plants and alcohol ahead.

Sep 7, 2004

   

Agave

    Even before you start making Tequila, the Agave is a fascinating plant, as Norm Schilling explains.

Aug 31, 2004

   

New Gardener

    Angela O'Callaghan introduces us to a new gardener in town ahead.

Aug 24, 2004

   

Fall Plants

    Norm Schilling gets a head start on some fall planting.

Aug 17, 2004

   

Respecting the Desert

    Angela O'Callaghan wonders why it's so hard for some people to see the beauty of this area?

Aug 10, 2004

   

Mesquites

    Mesquites grow so fast you can prune them anytime - as Norm Schilling explains.

Aug 3, 2004

   

Melting Turf

    If your turf appears to be 'melting' it's not the heat, Angela O'Callaghan has the answer.

Jul 20, 2004

   

Palm Trees

    Angela O'Callaghan has some notes on palms.

Jul 6, 2004

   

More Water and Temp Plants

    While conserving water is a goal, you may need to give your desert landscape more water as it grows. Norm Schilling has some thoughts as we head to the hottest days of summer.

Jun 29, 2004

   

Brown Grass and Aphids

    Angela O'Callaghan gives tips on dealing with two summertime problems.

Jun 22, 2004

   

Garden Teachings

    Norm Schilling explains how you garden can teach you something.

Jun 15, 2004

   

Desert Weeds

    Angela O'Callaghan asks a weed expert about our least favorite plants.

Jun 8, 2004

   

Beat the Heat

    Norm Schilling enjoys fruit from his orchard and offers some tips on helping plants beat the heat.

May 25, 2004

   

Cactus and Trees

    Norm Schilling is thrilled by cactus in bloom and has advice on preserving your trees when converting to desert landscape.

May 18, 2004

   

Too Much Water

    Angela O'Callaghan explains the importance of roots and the problem of over watering.

May 11, 2004

   

Prepare for Summer Heat

    Norm Schilling takes a survey of his garden to prepare for 100+ degree temperatures.

May 4, 2004

   

Praise Cactus

    Angela O'Callaghan has some seasonal praise for cactus.

Apr 27, 2004

   

Back at Turner Nursery

    Last time we left Norm Schilling at Dave Turner's greenhouse. On today's Desert Bloom, more on the exotic plants that may prove themselves as hardy enough for our desert climate.

Apr 20, 2004

   

Books

    Angela O'Callaghan recommends some gardening books with our climate in mind.

Apr 13, 2004

   

Turner Nursery

    When you really want variety in your cacti and succulents, you'll find it at Turner Nursery. Norm Schilling spoke with owner Dave Turner this week.

Mar 23, 2004

   

Spring!

    Spring brings with it color in the yard, and Norm Schilling points out some of his favorites.

Mar 16, 2004

   

Desert Plants

    Finding the right plants for your 'desert landscape' can include variety of species native to the area.

Mar 9, 2004

   

Spring Planting

    While thousands packed the Speedway for NASCAR last weekend, Norm Schilling chose the peace and quiet of his yard.

Mar 2, 2004

   

Rain

    Angela O'Callaghan has these thoughts on our recent rainy weather and what it means for our region.

Feb 17, 2004

   

Fertilizer

    With Spring in the air Norm Schilling has some thoughts on fertilizer.

Feb 10, 2004

   

Plant Catalogs

    Angela O'Callaghan has some thoughts on those tempting plant catalogs in your mailbox at this time of year.

Feb 3, 2004

   

Kill the Grass

    Norm Schilling notes that the one thing standing between you and desert landscaping may be bermuda grass.

Jan 27, 2004

   

Dirt

    Angela O'Callaghan has the 'dirt' on Southern Nevada soil.

Jan 25, 2004

   

Pesticides

    Angela O'Callaghan looks at the careful use of pesticides.

Jan 20, 2004

   

Landscape Do's and Don'ts

    Norm Schilling points out the good the bad and the ugly of some landscaping in a Las Vegas neighborhood.

Jan 13, 2004

   

Cold Effects

    Angela O'Callaghan finds out about the impact of the recent cold spell on our garden plants and trees.

Jan 6, 2004

   

Fundementals of Pruning

    Maybe you have some minor damage from last week's snow, or you just need to get going on winter pruning - Norm Schilling has the scoop.

Dec 30, 2003

   

After the Holidays

    Angela O'Callaghan offers some thoughts for the end of the year, and a smart start to 2004.

Dec 23, 2003

   

Winter Pruning

    Norm Schilling reminds us that while winter is a natural time for pruning, it also demands a long term plan.

Dec 16, 2003

   

Winter Plants

    Angela O'Callaghan offers some thoughts on plants that thrive on our short winter days.

Dec 9, 2003

   

Winter Watering

    Norm Schilling adds his thoughts on dealing with fall leaves and the upside of our current watering restrictions.

Dec 2, 2003

   

Hard Freeze

    We had a record low daytime temperature last week. Angela O'Callaghan has some thoughts on what a hard freeze would do to plants in the Valley.

Nov 25, 2003

   

Benign Neglect

    Norm Schilling finds plenty to be passionate and thankful about in his yard...despite having been neglectful.

Nov 18, 2003

   

Google the Plants

    She won't be at comdex, but Angela O'Callaghan has some thoughts on using the internet for horticultural reseach.

Nov 11, 2003

   

Fall Planting

    Norm Schilling pays a visit to the CCSN nursery to find what's ready to plant.

Nov 4, 2003

   

Xeriscape

    With additional watering restrictions taking effect this month, Angela O'Callaghn asks 'What is Xeriscaping?'

Oct 21, 2003

   

Big Tree

    Join Norm Schilling as a recording breaking tree gets some TLC.

Oct 14, 2003

   

Bulbs

    It's time to plant bulbs. Angela O'Callaghan tell us how.

Oct 7, 2003

   

Water Carefully

    Norm Schilling has some thoughts on the pitfalls of Xeriscaping.

Sep 23, 2003

   

Palo Verde

    Norm Schilling takes a look at the Palo Verdes at the Desert Demonstration Gardens.

Sep 16, 2003

   

Roots

    Where does much of our food come from? Angela O'Callahan gets to the 'root' of the question.

Sep 9, 2003

   

Desert Trees Continued

    Norm Schilling continues his survey of trees that thrive in the desert with a trip to the desert demonstration gardens.

Sep 2, 2003

   

Too Much Water

    Recent rains remind Angela O'Callaghan that our plants can suffer from too much water.

Aug 26, 2003

   

More Desert Trees

    Norm Schilling continues his survey of drought tolerant trees that do well in the valley.

Aug 19, 2003

   

Light

    Last week's blackout makes Angela O'Callaghan think about how much light plants need. Not as much as you might think...

Aug 17, 2003

   

Respecting the Desert

    Angela O'Callaghan wonders why it's so hard for some people to see the beauty of this area?

Aug 12, 2003

   

Desert Trees

    Norm Schilling surveys trees that fare well in the Valley, and begins this week with drought tolerant species to consider for your yard.

Aug 5, 2003

   

Phytochemicals

    Angela O'Callaghan explains why plants provides us with so many beneficial vitamins and minerals.

Jul 22, 2003

   

But the Plants Love It...

    Heat and humidity are an uncomfortable combination for us, but Norm Schilling says it's great for our gardens.

Jul 15, 2003

   

Cold Weather?

    With triple-digit temperatures baking Las Vegas, it's hard to look ahead to a time when cold weather can damage our gardens. Angela O'Callahan takes a look ahead.

Jul 8, 2003

   

Plan for Planting

    Norm Schilling says summer is the time to plan for fall planting.

Jul 1, 2003

   

Roses

    Roses are a beautiful addition to any landscape, but as Angela O'Callahan tells us, they are tough enough to survive the desert heat, too.

Jun 24, 2003

   

Weeding

    Norm Schilling is inspired by the humble tasks of weeding and taming an overgrown plant.

Jun 17, 2003

   

Palm Trees

    The summer heat can be tough on plants, but Angela O'Callaghan says this is a good time to transplant palm trees.

Jun 10, 2003

   

Summer Heat

    Norm Schilling finds plenty of evidence of our early summer heat.

Jun 3, 2003

   

Coping with Heat

    In case you hadn't noticed, it's hot! Angela O'Callahan tells us how native plants manage this weather.

May 27, 2003

   

Prepare, then Plant

    Norm Schilling reminds us to spend some extra time on soil preparations before planting.

May 20, 2003

   

Desert Fruit

    Angela O'Callaghan has the scoop on how to grow or find fresh fruit and produce.

May 13, 2003

   

Lush Desert Landscape

    Norm Schilling takes us to an award winning desert landscape in Summerlin.

May 6, 2003

   

Bad Plants

    Angela O'Callaghan - When Good Plants Go Bad

Apr 22, 2003

   

Spring Blooms

    Norm Schilling revels in the blooms of Spring.

Apr 15, 2003

   

Mulch It

    Angela O'Callaghan says you can make your garden plants much happier this summer by protecting them with mulch.

Apr 8, 2003

   

Chocolate in the Garden

    Norm Schilling offers a newcomer to Las Vegas some advice on landscaping, including how to grow chocolate.

Apr 1, 2003

   

Tomatoes

    Angela O'Callaghan pays tribute to the tomatoe.

Mar 18, 2003

   

Spring Fever

    Norm Schilling has Spring fever, which means pulling up plants as well as planting them.

Mar 11, 2003

   

Plant Sale

    If you've been wondering where to get new and interesting desert plants, Angela O'Callahan has the answer for you! CCSN's upcoming plant sale.

Mar 4, 2003

   

Fruits and Nuts

    With rain in the valley and Spring on the way folks are heading to the nurseries for supplies. Norm Schilling says we should add fruits and nuts to the list.

Feb 25, 2003

   

Date Palms

    Does the the idea of ripe dates set your mouth watering? Angella O'Callaghan talks with palm expert M.L. Robinson about the recent influx of Date Palms into the Las Vegas Valley.

Feb 18, 2003

   

Early Spring?

    Norm Schilling is getting his yard ready for Spring by cutting back unruly grapes, flowering plants and grasses.

Feb 11, 2003

   

Seed Catalogues

    It's the time of year when cerebral gardening takes precedence over active time in the dirt. Angela O'Callahan gives us some tips on how to really read those plant and seed catalogues in your mail box.

Jan 28, 2003

   

Roses in Winter

    The calendar still says January but the yard thinks it's Spring. Norm Schilling takes care of his early-blooming roses.

Jan 21, 2003

   

Ethel M

    Angela O'Callaghan takes us on a tour of the water gardens at Ethel M's.

Jan 14, 2003

   

Winter Pruning

    Norm Schilling continues with his winter pruning and muses on the aesthetics of shaping plant material.

Jan 7, 2003

   

Pine Blight

    Few trees are at their best at this time of year, but there is a worrying reason some Pines look so bad. Angela O'Callaghan has the answer.

Dec 31, 2002

   

Winter Transplants

    Norm Schilling gets back in his garden to transplant some thriving grasses.

Dec 24, 2002

   

Mistletoe

    Angela O'Callaghan talks about the origins of Mistletoe - authentic and otherwise.

Dec 17, 2002

   

Zen Pruning

    Norm Schilling takes sawblade in hand to prune a Mesquite tree and we learn more than expected.

Dec 10, 2002

   

Indoor Plants

    With cold weather upon us you might not be gardening outside, but Angela O'Callahan has some tips on our indoor plants.

Dec 3, 2002

   

Musical Cacti

    Norm Schilling takes in the sights and sounds of a fall yard and finds music in his cacti.

Nov 26, 2002

   

Thanksgiving

    Have you been working on your Thanksgiving menu? Angela O'Callahan gives us selections for an All-American holiday feast.

Nov 19, 2002

   

Drip Irrigation

    If you can punch a hole in a black plastic tube, Norm says you can become a drip irrigation expert.

Nov 12, 2002

   

Fall Watering

    Norm Schilling say not only should we check our watering schedules, but we should examine our overall watering philosphy during this time of year.

Nov 5, 2002

   

Organic Gardening

    Angela O'Callahan puts the new federal standards for growing organically in perspective for the home gardener.

Oct 22, 2002

   

Fire in the Desert

    In the desert we don't think much about the risk of forest fire, but Angela O'Calahan takes us to one that happened in our own backyard.

Oct 15, 2002

   

Experts Galore

    The 'Day With the Experts' is coming soon. Norm Schilling has a preview.

Oct 8, 2002

   

Oleander

    One of our most popular and attractive landscape plants is also very toxic. Angela O'Callaghan has some words of wisdom about Oleander.

Oct 1, 2002

   

Day with the Experts

    Norm Schilling looks at the schedule for the 'Day with the Experts' at Desert Demonstration Gardens and finds something for everybody including himself.

Sep 24, 2002

   

Protecting Wildlife

    Norm Schilling advises us to be gentle with the use of pesticides and the results will be more diverse wildlife in our yards.

Sep 17, 2002

   

Cooler Weather

    Most people tend to gain a new lease on life once the torrid summer months have past. Angela O'Callaghan says plants react much the same way.

Sep 10, 2002

   

Fall Planting

    Most people just love the weather this time of year in southern Nevada. Norm Schilling tells us that plants love it too, and this is a great time to plant.

Sep 3, 2002

   

Compost

    Angela O'Callaghan teaches how easy it is to create your own compost...even in the desert.

Aug 27, 2002

   

Tree Borers and More

    Norm Schilling does a summer checkup on his garden and finds tree borers and cactus scale.

Aug 20, 2002

   

Summer Garden

    More tips from Angela O'Callaghan and Norm Schilling concerning common problems in the summer garden.

Aug 13, 2002

   

Summer in the Garden

    The dog days of summer are hard on the yard. This week we hear the first in a series of answers to summer gardening questions.

Aug 6, 2002

   

Community Gardens

    Angela O'Callaghan reflects on the parallels between gardening in New York City and here in Las Vegas.

Jul 30, 2002

   

Container Plants

    Planting in containers is a necessity for some of us. While Norm Schilling says we shouldn't really do it - he has some tips on plants in pots.

Jul 23, 2002

   

Recycling

    Angela O'Callaghan visits a water treatment plant at Ethel M's that mimics the natural action of wetlands.

Jul 16, 2002

   

Succulents

    Norm Schilling goes in search of 'chicks and hens' in his garden and finds some very happy succulents.

Jul 9, 2002

   

Garden Failures

    Despite your best efforts in the garden, sometimes plants don't make it. It even happens to Norm Schilling.

Jul 2, 2002

   

Water Gardens are Great - But...

    Angela O'Callaghan muses on the appeal of water as a feature of our landscapes.

Jun 25, 2002

   

Plants Survive the Heat...

    We tend to have trouble adjusting to the desert heat...so how do desert plants manage it?

Jun 18, 2002

   

Making Better Dirt

    Norm Schilling likes to have fun in the garden... but sometimes it's hard work, too. That's the case when he has to add mulch to amend our desert soil.

Jun 11, 2002

   

Beneficials

    Angela O'Callaghan says we shouldn't get too upset when we see bugs in the garden. Before you spray pesticide, remember, there are good bugs.

Jun 4, 2002

   

Trees and Wind

    Norm Schilling tells us how to choose a tree and plant it in a way that will reduce damage from our high winds.

May 28, 2002

   

Late Spring Garden

    As Spring turns to Summer, Norm Schilling reminds us of some chores to be done in the yard.

May 21, 2002

   

Cactus Rescue

    Volunteers are working to save endangered cacti and other desert plants that would otherwise be destroyed by expansion of the gypsum mine near Blue Diamond.

May 14, 2002

   

Indoor Gardening

    When the desert heat takes its toll on you and your outdoor plants, you might want to try your hand at some indoor gardening.

May 7, 2002

   

Blooming Cacti

    The Desert Demonstration Gardens marked their 20th anniversary last weekend. This time of year some of the showiest blooms at the DDG are on the cacti. Steve Plath tells us about some of the best.

Apr 30, 2002

   

A Dangerous Place

    Norm Schilling ventures into a dangerous place...dangerous that is for a gardener who can't say no when he finds an interesting tree.

Apr 23, 2002

   

Growing Fresh Air

    Angela O'Callaghan reminds us that soon the weather will be hot and we'll be spending most of our time indoors. She has some tips on indoor plants that look great and help clean the air.

Apr 16, 2002

   

Keeping Your Grass Green

    Norm Schilling talks turf to find the best way to grow healthy grass...poke holes in the ground.

Apr 9, 2002

   

Shrubs or Trees?

    Most people want large mature plants in their yard. Norm Schilling says some shrubs will do the job nicely - if you let them.

Apr 2, 2002

   

Spring Fever

    Norm Schilling wants to sit back and enjoy the wonders of spring...but first he has to plant an African Daisy in his garden.

Mar 26, 2002

   

Spring Planting

    It's spring. So if you've been asking yourself what to do in the garden, Angela O'Callahan has some ideas on what to plant.

Mar 19, 2002

   

Desert Weeds

    You might think that in the desert "if it's green and grows it's good", but that is not the case with invasive weeds.

Mar 12, 2002

   

Planning Your Yard

    Norm Schilling would be the first to admit his yard is a work in progress, and even he sometimes plants the wrong thing in the wrong place...

Mar 5, 2002

   

Tree Transplanting

    It's not too late to transplant trees. Norm Schilling found a volunteer Chinese Pistache in his vegetable patch, so you'll hear about a good method to transplant a tree on this week's Desert Bloom.

Feb 26, 2002

   

Gardening Prisoners

    Angela O'Callaghan talks to imates at Jean Conservation Camp about what they've learned from gardening.

Feb 19, 2002

   

Junipers

    Norm Schilling suggests that we look to the good old juniper for adding color and depth to our yards.

Feb 12, 2002

   

School Gardens

    Angela O'Callaghan has discovered a growing trend in area schools...

Feb 5, 2002

   

Shade-loving plants

    Find a shady spot in the yard and try one of these plants recommended by Norm Schilling.

Jan 29, 2002

   

Full sun - no care

    Norm Schilling loves to garden - but that doesn't mean you have to. Here are some plants for the sunniest parts of your yard that require next to no attention!

Jan 22, 2002

   

Desert Plants are Different

    Angela O'Callaghan has some thoughts on what makes the desert a "Desert".

Jan 15, 2002

   

Winter Watering

    How often and how much? Norm Schilling reminds us that proper drip irrigation requires some planning.

Jan 8, 2002

   

Winter Gardening

    While we have temperatures near 60 degrees in Southern Nevada it is still Winter - and there's plenty to do in the yard. Norm Schilling runs through chores which you'll need to do this season on today's Desert Bloom.

Jan 1, 2002

   

New Year's Resolutions

    Angela O'Callaghan has some horticultural resolutions for the New Year.

Dec 25, 2001

   

Christmas Wishes

    It's too late for holiday gifts for the gardener on your list...but our Desert Bloom hosts have plenty of wishes for the season.

Dec 18, 2001

   

Don't Top Those Trees

    Arborist Norm Schilling laments the practice of 'topping' Mulberry and other trees.

Dec 11, 2001

   

Living Christmas Trees

    If you have yet to buy a Christmas Tree - then Angela O'Callaghan has some good arguments for a living one.

Dec 4, 2001

   

Cold in the Desert

    Angela O’Callaghan advises that if we get a hard freeze this winter many of our ornamental plants may suffer.

Nov 27, 2001

   

Las Vegas Springs

    Steve Plath takes us on a tour of the Las Vegas Springs Preserve.

Nov 20, 2001

   

Sharing

    Angela O’Callaghan contemplates sharing in the desert.

Nov 13, 2001

   

Desert Demonstration Gardens

    The DDG has it all for desert gardners.

Nov 6, 2001

   

Tree Planting

    You can have a healthy tree if you start by digging a big hole in the ground.

Oct 30, 2001

   

Bats in the Desert

    Angela O'Callaghan defends the much-maligned bat.

Oct 23, 2001

   

Gardening Therapy

    Angela O'Callaghan talks to author Eva Shaw about "gardening therapy".

Oct 16, 2001

   

Garden Clubs